Sunderland Are In The Mix To Recruit This Barcelona Defender: Should Le Bris Bring Him On Board?

Sunderland Are In The Mix To Recruit This Barcelona Defender: Should Le Bris Bring Him On Board? In a recent report , journalist Graeme Bailey stated that Sunderland are in the mix to recruit Barcelona full-back Alejandro Balde. It has been mentioned that the Black Cats are facing competition from Everton, Fulham and Manchester United in the race to land the Spanish talent next year. Balde’s Decent Form In La Liga Last Season Balde enjoyed a good run of form at the Catalan club in the previous campaign as he has been responsible for putting in a string of impressive displays for them on the left flank. The 22-year-old has secured three assists in 42 matches for Barcelona last season across all competitions. The Spanish talent is currently one of the most gifted full-backs in La Liga. Hence, the Black Cats would do well to win the race for his services next year. His current contract at the Stadium of Light will run out in the summer of 2028, which could open the door for Sunderland to land him on the cheap at the end of this campaign. SEVILLE, SPAIN – APRIL 26: Alejandro Balde of FC Barcelona waves as he inspects the pitch prior to the Copa del Rey Final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at Estadio de La Cartuja on April 26, 2025 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Should Sunderland Boss Regis Le Bris Bring Balde On Board? Balde is a good tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and is a tidy passer as well from the left flank. The Spanish sensation is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can deliver some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area. Balde is primarily a left-back but can also serve as a left-sided wide player if needed. However, there are some question marks over whether he can adapt to the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Black Cats manage to sign him in 2027. We can expect Balde to bring more quality and depth to Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris’ backline. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Wearside club in the coming years. At 22, Balde has the potential to be a future star in English football as long as he continues to improve with each season. Therefore, Le Bris would be wise to bring him on board next year.